Hong Kong residences and even village houses are often seenAmerican Mortise Lockappears. As the core part, the lock cylinder is mainly divided into two camps:「Screw bladder」 Same as 「Pin insert」. Although the appearance of the two is similar, the fixing methods are completely different. Many owners/tenants buy the wrong lock cylinder and end up with the new lock cylinder being wasted. Some even fail to replace it and the lock body is scrapped. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the differences between the two types of lock cylinders to help you make smart repairs.
Fixed method: There is a recess on the side of the lock cylinder, which can be directly tightened and fixed by a transverse screw on the lock body. Just loosen the screws when replacing.
Advantages: High popularity, easy to get at hardware stores; replacement cost is low.
Disadvantages: If the screws become loose over time, the lock cylinder may shake. Replacement requires skills.
Fixed method: The lock cylinder is fixed with a latch and is not exposed. You only need to pull it out when replacing it.
Advantages: Sturdy and durable, easy to replace, and no risk of screw loosening.
Disadvantages: The popularity is low and difficult to buy/distribute in general hardware stores; the replacement cost is high.
Regardless of whether the screws or pins are used, different problems will occur. The following is a summary of common faults based on Hong Kong locksmith repair experience:
| Fault phenomenon | Possible reasons | Suggested solutions |
|---|---|---|
| The key cannot be twisted/stuck after being inserted. | The inner bead of the lock cylinder is worn, has foreign matter or is insufficiently lubricated | Spray special lock core lubricant (WD40 is not recommended). If it doesn’t work, you need to replace the lock cylinder. |
| The lock cylinder can idle but cannot retract the lock tongue | The fixing screw of the screw bladder is loose, or the linkage of the pin bladder is broken. | Disassemble the panel and check. Please re-tighten the screws; the pins need to be replaced by the master with the linkage kit. |
| The lock cylinder was pulled out of the door in pieces | The screw cartridge screw is completely thrown off / the pin cartridge pin is missing | Replace the fixings immediately, otherwise the safety hazard will be great and professional maintenance is required. |
| The key cannot be inserted or is stuck halfway. | There is foreign matter in the keyhole of the lock cylinder, the bead is displaced, or the lock cylinder is deformed | Try cleaning with compressed air. If it doesn’t work, please replace the lock cylinder. |
| The indoor handle is normal but the outdoor key cannot open the door. | The clutch mechanism between the lock cylinder and the lock body is faulty, or the lock cylinder is damaged | Test whether the lock cylinder is operating normally, replace the lock cylinder and rematch if necessary |
| The lock cylinder makes a harsh metallic sound when it rotates | Internal parts are severely rusted or worn | It is necessary to replace the lock cylinder with a new one to avoid being locked and trapped outside the door. |
| The pin cylinder lock key rotates smoothly but the lock body does not respond | The pin is separated from the lock body toggle piece | The lock must be disassembled and reassembled. It is a complex fault. Call 101 immediately to unlock the door. |
After the master arrived, he repositioned the lock cylinder, tightened the screws and added anti-loosening washers. It took 15 minutes to solve the problem. There is a charge of $380 and a reminder to check the screws regularly.
Due to the special structure of the pin cartridge, the master used a special unwinder to take out the old cartridge and replace it with a new original pin cartridge. At the same time, he maintained the lock body. The whole process took about 45 minutes. Customers praised his professionalism.
The following housing estates/property developers often use the original configurationPin lock cylinder . If you live in the following housing estates, please pay special attention to the original structure when replacing the lock cylinder to avoid buying the wrong screw cylinder and failing to install it.
The lock body structure is the factor that determines the side lock cylinder. The two structures are completely different. The pictures below show the actual differences between the two lock bodies. You can avoid buying the wrong parts if you understand the characteristics first.
Regardless of whether your American lock cylinder lock body fails, our 101 locksmith has many years of experience and can quickly diagnose the problem on the spot and provide replacement and repair services. We provide door-to-door services in all 18 districts of Hong Kong. The charges are transparent and we will never overcharge.
Have any questions? Contact a specialist immediately for answers
